The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV that sits at the pinnacle of the company’s entire range. Packed with technology and power, and boasting one of the most spacious cabins available in Canada today, it’s an SUV for those who won’t accept any compromise. Here are the key features that the 2022 Escalade brings to the high-end SUV market in Canada.
Unusually for a mainstream SUV, the Escalade is available in two body forms: the regular model and an extended ESV version. Although both SUVs are virtually identical under the hood and in terms of features and technology, the ESV model is longer with a wheelbase measuring 573.6cm compared to the regular Escalade’s 538.2cm.
The extra length provides a touch more legroom in the third row, but the main effect is to increase the available cargo space. The regular Escalade offers a maximum of 3,427L which is generous enough, but the ESV raises the bar with a truly impressive 4,044L. However, to set against the increased cargo capacity, the ESV has a slightly reduced towing ability with a maximum of 3,586kg compared to the regular model’s 3,629kg.
Whichever wheelbase you choose, the Escalade’s domineering size is fully matched by power under the hood. The standard engine is a 6.2L gas V8 making 420 horsepower and 460lb-ft of torque when running at full tilt, although cylinder deactivation technology can restrain the engine to conserve fuel when high performance isn’t required. The output is passed through a smooth ten-speed automatic transmission to all-wheel drive as standard.
The second engine option is a 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel which drops the horsepower down to 277hp for better fuel economy but maintains the same high torque output of 460lb-ft. Crucially, thanks to the way diesel engines are designed, the maximum torque is available at lower engine RPMs than with the gas V8. This gives the diesel Escalade more reliable acceleration from a standing start, which is particularly important when carrying heavy loads.
But no matter which engine choice you make, the Escalade drives with all the smooth confidence and control that you’d expect from a flagship Cadillac vehicle.
It’s hard to imagine an SUV with a more luxurious interior than the Escalade. Most trims feature real leather throughout, on the dashboard and door panels as well as the upholstery, while at the top of the range, the seats are covered with super-soft semi-aniline hide for an even more upscale feel. Adjustable ambient lighting creates a soothing glow throughout the cabin, while the available heated and ventilated seats also include a massage function to soothe aching backs after a long day.
But the selection of technology in the Escalade cabin ups the luxury level even further. You might see some SUVs boasting about a 10″ digital display, but the Escalade provides an incredible 38″ digital strip comprising three separate but overlapping screens.
The driver’s side of the combined display is devoted to a digital instrument gauge, with the rest used to access infotainment functions for both driver and passenger. Augmented-reality navigation is included as standard, along with smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a Wi-Fi hotspot facility ensures every Escalade occupant can stay fully connected at all times.
And the rear-seat passengers don’t need to feel left out of this electronic extravaganza. An optional media upgrade provides dual 12.6″ displays in the back that can provide movie streaming and more.
If the in-cabin technology is impressive, then the included safety tech is simply superlative. The most attention-grabbing feature is Cadillac’s Super Cruise technology which allows semi-autonomous, hands-free driving on highways covered by the multi-million-kilometre database
Lane changes can be carried out automatically, complete with turn signals, when the system determines it’s both safe and beneficial to do so. Alternatively, the driver can initiate the lane change manually, with the system completing the maneuver safely and smoothly.
But of course, the Escalade also offers plenty of traditional safety tech including forward collision warnings, automated emergency braking, and much more.
There are three Escalade trim levels available in Canada, whether you choose the regular or ESV versions. The range starts with the Luxury trim, offering a generous amount of tech and comforts as standard. Next in line is the Premium Luxury trim, which adds extra comfort and increases the selection of driver-assist features.
And at the top of the range is the Sport trim, which adds exterior cosmetic upgrades and allows access to the whole suite of additional packages and upgrades.
Find out for yourself why the Escalade is the most popular premium SUV in Canada by booking a test drive now, and see exactly how advanced a large luxury vehicle can be.
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